"No one ever was a great poet, that applied himself much to anything else"
- William Temple
About this Quote
This quote by William Temple recommends that it is difficult to be a terrific poet if one is too focused on other pursuits. Temple implies that a terrific poet must devote themselves to their craft in order to attain success. He recommends that if one is too focused on other activities, they will not be able to reach the same level of success as a poet who is entirely devoted to their craft. This quote can be analyzed as a cautioning to aspiring poets to concentrate on their craft and not be sidetracked by other activities. It can likewise be viewed as a tip to poets to remain concentrated on their craft and not be lured by other pursuits. Temple's quote is a suggestion that greatness in poetry requires dedication and focus.
"As your faith is strengthened you will find that there is no longer the need to have a sense of control, that things will flow as they will, and that you will flow with them, to your great delight and benefit"